Cartridge for dispensing pill -or capsule - form medications in desired doses

ABSTRACT

A system for dispensing pill- or capsule-form medications ( 61 ) in desired doses ( 60 ). The system comprises a dispensing device ( 35 ), which includes a cartridge ( 20, 40 ) rotatable relative to a housing or frame ( 10 ) and provided with discrete dosage compartments ( 27, 47 ) for desired doses of medication. The cartridge ( 20, 40 ) is manipulated by elements ( 18, 18   a,    18   b;    14   a,    14   b,    15, 18, 19 ), whereby each separate dosage compartment ( 27, 47 ) is rotatable relative to the housing or frame ( 10 ) to a dispensing point ( 4, 12 ) for the dose of medication ( 60 ). A signalling device ( 75, 76 ) producing a sound and/or light signal activates at pre-programmed times. An electronics unit ( 19, 55 ) containing a dispensing program is reprogrammable by means of an external programming device ( 36, 66, 101, 102 ). The cartridge ( 20, 40 ) is adapted to be disengaged from the dispensing device ( 35 ) and to be transferred to a loading device ( 80 ), which fills the dosage compartments ( 27, 47 ) of the cartridge with desired doses of medication and furnishes the filled cartridge with identification data (ID), on the basis of which the filled cartridge ( 20, 40 ) can be certifiably returned to the proper dispensing device ( 35 ), which is arranged to upkeep a dispensing event log at a distant control file ( 64   a ).

[0001] The invention relates to a system for dispensing pill- orcapsule-form medications in desired doses, said system comprising adispensing device which includes

[0002] a housing or frame,

[0003] a cartridge movable with respect to the housing or frame andprovided with individual dosage compartments for desired doses ofmedication,

[0004] means for manipulating the cartridge, whereby each individualdosage compartment is movable relative to the housing or frame to adispensing point for the dose of medication,

[0005] a signaling device giving a sound and/or light signal, whichactivates at pre-programmed points of time, and

[0006] an electronics unit containing a dispensing program.

[0007] The invention relates also to a method for filling the dosagecompartments of a cartridge of the above described type with a desireddose of medication.

[0008] Patent publication U.S. Pat. No. 5,805,051 discloses a medicationdispenser device, which is provided with a clock and a sound signalmeans for reminding of the taking of medication at pre-programmed times.The cover of a medication container can be opened by the pressing of abutton at appropriate times for medication, which are programmable in aversatile manner. The dispensing container is an ordinary compartmenttray, from which the medicine taker must be able to choose a propercompartment and ingest the dose of medication contained therein. Thistype of dispensing is not suitable for patients whose mental ability hasimpaired, e.g. as a result of dementia. Filling the dispensingcompartments with proper doses of medication is a tedious andhigh-precision operation, which is a burden to health care personnel asthere are large numbers of patients both in hospitals and home care whomust be provided with regular medication.

[0009] Patent publication U.S. Pat. No. 3,815,780 discloses a dispenserfor medications, the dispensing being effected from a rotatablemedication cartridge at regular intervals under the control of a clockin such a manner that each dose of medication can only be consumedduring a preset time period, which is reminded of by means of an audiblealarm. In addition, a visual signal can be used to indicate whether themedication can be taken, whether it has been taken, or whether it hasnot been taken at a prescribed time. The medications are released fromthe outer periphery of the cartridge by the action of gravity. Thefilling and handling of such a dispensing cartridge outside the deviceis awkward, nor is the dispensing cartridge intended to be disengaged.The dispensing cartridge is not suitable for refilling effected in anautomated dispenser device. The programming of operation and limiting ofa prescribed time interval are performed with a complicated mechanicalassembly, which restricts programming possibilities substantially.

[0010] Patent publication U.S. Pat. No. 5,176,285 discloses an automaticpill dispensing apparatus having a plurality of medication cartridgesmounted on a rotatable shaft within a housing or cabinet. The dosagecompartments are included in a rotatable inner cartridge unit which isfitted in a cylindrical non-rotatable cartridge housing which seals thecircumferential surface and one of the lateral surfaces of medicationcompartments. The cartridge includes also a disc-shaped templateprovided with an array of holes for selecting the timing of dosagedispension. A clock and a microprocessor are used to control drivemotors for the apparatus and a dispense bar motor, which can be actuatedwith a push button at pre-programmed dispensing times. The filling andhandling of this type of dosage cartridge outside the apparatus isawkward. The dosage cartridge is not suitable for refilling effected inan automated dispensing apparatus. The design is complicated andexpensive and requires a multitude of various templates.

[0011] Patent publication U.S. Pat. No. 4,785,969 shows a medicationdispensing system for controlled preprogrammed dispensing of medicationto a patient and for creating a retrievable patient medication record.Manually rotatable carousel or magazine is adopted to receive individualcassettes of medicine. The cassettes have been manually preloaded in apreprogrammed manner in the hospital pharmacy or the like. Thedispensing unit is programmed according to individual patient needs tosignal at selected times when medication is prescribed. The medicationcan be accessed for dispensing only after entry of valid nurse or otherpersonnel identification code into a dispensing unit memory. Thedispensing unit further includes sensors for detecting removal of anymedication cassette and for signalling the dispensing unit memory tocreate a corresponding patient medication record. A data transmissiondevice is provided for selectively programming the dispensing unitmemory and/or for reading the patient medication record from the memory.There is no real time dispensing event log at hand at any other placebut in the dispensing device itself. The cassette system and loading ofcassettes is difficult to control.

[0012] It is an object of the invention to provide a dispensing systemfor doses of medication, which is void of the above-mentioned drawbacksand shortcomings.

[0013] One specific object of the present invention is to keep a realtime dispensing event log at a distant control location (such as inoperator's internet server) which can be accessed via internet by thosewho have a key code or password.

[0014] According to a further object of the present invention saiddistant control location has programmable intelligence to followdispensing schedule of each identified dispensing apparatus programmedto be followed and to give an alarm to one or more predetermined caregiver via any appropriate communication path. This arrangement focusesthe personal care to such patients who really need it. A greater numberof patients can be followed and helped.

[0015] Still another object of the invention is to use a dispensingcartridge which facilitates filling or loading of the dosagecompartments by doses of medication either manually or more or less inan automated manner by using a loading robotics, and which dispensingcartridge alone can also be used as a simple manually operateddispensing apparatus which is provided by visual indication ofdispensing schedule, said visual indication serving both for manualfilling or loading and for manually operated dispensing if the cartridgeis used alone as a manually operated dispensing apparatus.

[0016] Still a further object of the invention is to provide, as apreferred option, a possibility to fill or load the dosage compartmentsof the dispensing cartridge under control of a computer program whichgives an alarm if there are non-compatible medications to be loaded.

[0017] Still a further object of the invention is to provide amedication dispensing system wherein the information of identification,medication and dispensing schedule follows the cartridge and can beeasily re-programmed and transferred between the cartridge and thememory of the dispensing device containing the dispensing program, aswell as between either of these and a programming computer.

[0018] This and other objects are achieved according to the invention onthe basis of the characterizing features set forth in the annexed claim1. The non-independent claims disclose preferred embodiments of theinvention, which facilitate dosing or loading logistics, offer versatilere-programming possibilities for dispensing, and facilitate thesupervision of medication.

[0019] A few preferred embodiments of the present invention will now bedescribed in more detail with reference made to the accompanyingdrawings, in which:

[0020]FIG. 1 shows schematically a segmented medication dispenser usefulas part of a system of the invention.

[0021]FIG. 2 shows schematically from below a dosage cartridge for thedispensing device of FIG. 1.

[0022]FIG. 3A shows schematically a sectional view along a line IIIa inFIG. 2.

[0023]FIG. 3B shows schematically a sectional view along a line IIIb inFIG. 2.

[0024]FIG. 4 shows schematically a sectional view of the medicationdispenser of FIG. 1.

[0025]FIG. 5 shows in a plan view an automatic loading and medicineselection device for loading dosage cartridges.

[0026]FIG. 6 shows the loading device in a side view.

[0027]FIG. 7 shows a block diagram for a system of the invention.

[0028]FIG. 8 shows schematically a medication dispenser according to asecond embodiment useful as part of a system of the invention.

[0029]FIG. 9 shows a dosage cartridge for the dispenser of FIG. 8.

[0030]FIG. 10 shows a programming device useful between the dispensingdevice and a facility computer in hospital, rest home or the like.

[0031]FIG. 11 illustrates a schema of an alternative loading devicelocated for example in a dispensary or druggist's.

[0032] Reference is first made to one embodiment (FIGS. 1-4) of adispensing device, which can be used as part of a system of theinvention.

[0033]FIGS. 1-4 show schematically an exploded view as well as a cutawayassembly view of a medication dispenser for delivering pill- orcapsule-form medications 61 in desired doses. The loading device isessentially made up by cartridges 20, 30 and 40, 50 to be set on top ofa frame 10 and, preferably, on top of each other. Around the cartridges20, 30 and 40, 50 is fitted a cover 1. The cover 1 and the frame 10constitute housing elements for the device to enclose the piled-upcartridges 20, 30 and 40, 50 within a space 5 inside the cover 1.

[0034] The frame 10 is preferably designed as a substantially flatcylinder with a hollow interior. This hollow space is provided with amotor 18, the drive unit of which comprises preferably an accumulator 6,a battery, or the like, arranged within the same space. The motor 18 isadapted to drive a shaft 15 which extends upwards through the top of theframe 10 to a height that is equal to the height of at least two of thepiled-up cartridges 20, 30 and 40, 50. The hollow space is also providedwith a memory and a processor for driving the motor 18 as desired, aswell as with other accommodated peripheral devices, such as an amplifier76 and a signal light 75.

[0035] The cartridges 20, 30 and 40, 50 are adapted to rotatable alongwith members 14 a, 14 b of the shaft 15 as a result of the engagementbetween a spline formed on the members 14 a, 14 b and a hole 24, 44 anda slot 25, 45 formed in the middle of the cartridges 20, 30 and 40, 50.The base disc 30, 50 is also provided with a matching engagement hole32, 52.

[0036] The structure of a cartridge itself is shown schematically inFIGS. 2, 3A, 3B. Like the frame 10, the cartridge 20, 40 is alsodesigned as a flat cylinder. The cartridge has its top surface 21, 41provided with an annular outer rim 26 b, 46 b, extending downwards fromthe edge thereof and constituting a lateral face for the cartridge, aswell as with an inner rim 26 a, 46 a which is radially about half thesize of the outer rim. However, the inner rim has a radius which ispreferably about ⅓-⅔ of that of the outer rim 26 b, 46 b. The annularspace formed between these two rims is provided with partitions 26 c, 26d, 46 c, 46 d extending radially from the outer rim 26 b, 46 b to theinner rim. Between those are defined separate segment-shaped (see FIG.2) dosage compartments 27, 47. Each dosage compartment 27, 47 is loadedwith a desired dose of medication 60 as described hereinafter.

[0037] The cartridge bottom is constituted by a separate circular basedisc 30, 50, having a diameter which is slightly smaller than that ofthe frame 10 but somewhat larger than that of the cartridge 20, 40. Thebase disc 30, 50 is provided with elongated cuts or slits 34, 54arranged radially inbound from its outer periphery. The cuts 34, 54extend substantially as far away from the outer rim 26 b, 46 b of thecartridge 20, 40 as the inner rim 26 a, 46 a of the cartridge 20, 40.

[0038] In the assembled condition, the base disc 30, 50 has its cuts 34,54 coinciding with the partitions 26 c, 26 d and 46 c, 46 d in thecartridge rotating direction. Between the cuts 34, 54 are definedsegment-shaped flaps 31, 51 constituting the actual base disc 30, 50.The cartridges 20, 30 and 40, 50 are driven around the shaft 15 of themotor 18 through the intermediary of the separate shaft members 14 a, 14b included in the shaft 15. These members are used for rotatingindividual cartridges 20, 30 and 40, 50 independently, regardless ofeach other. The rotary motion is preferably performed in such a way thatthe upper cartridge 20, 30 is first rotated a full circle, while thelower cartridge 40, 50 remains stationary. This is followed by rotatingthe lower cartridge 40, 50, while the upper cartridge remainsstationary.

[0039] Both cartridges 20, 30 and 40, 50 are preferably provided with arecess 23, 33 and 43, 53 the size of a single dosage compartment 27, 47.

[0040] The cartridges 20, 30 and 40, 50 are preferably enclosed by meansof a bowl-shaped cover 1 within a hollow space 5 provided therein. Thecover 1 is secured to the frame 10 by means of a common. preferablylatch-like locking mechanism 16, 17 mounted on the bottom edge of ashell portion 2 of the cover 1 and radially along the outer rim of theframe 10. The attachment between the cover 1 and the frame 10 may alsobe adapted to be secured by means of a key (not shown). The cover 1 hasthe top surface of its shell portion provided with bending elements 3,7, 8 a, 9 a for the bottom flaps 31, 51. One of these elements is adispenser press button 3. The dispenser press button 3 has its bottomedge provided with a rod 7 extending radially into the hollow space 5towards a dispensing point 12. The rod 7 is adapted to be extensibledownwards and towards the outer rims of the base discs 30, 50 of thecartridges 20, 30 and 40, 50. Adjacent to the base discs 30 and 50,preferably above the same, the rod 7 is provided with pushers 8 a and 9a for bending the bottom flaps 31, 51 to a dispense position.

[0041] According to the exemplary embodiment, a single cartridge 20, 30or 40, 50 includes 14 dosage compartments 27 or 47, i.e. two stacked-upcartridges 20, 30 and 40, 50 are provided with 28 dosage compartments.Thus, this represents a medication period of one week if the device isused for dispensing four doses of medication a day. Naturally, it ispossible to vary the duration of a dispensing period as well as thenumber of dosage compartments 27, 47.

[0042] The cartridges 20, 30 and 40, 50 are installed in the device,such that the recess 23 and 43 included therein coincides with thedispensing point 12. Consequently, from the beginning halfway through adispensing period (about 3,5 days) it is only the upper cartridge 20, 30which rotates on the separate member 14 b rotating through theintermediary of the motor 18 and the shaft 15. Thus, as the dispenserpress button 3 is depressed, the pushers 8 a, 9 a carried by the rod 7travel also across a distance to a position 8 b, 9 b, as shown in FIG.4. At the same time, the pusher 8 a presses the edge of the flap 31closing the dosage compartment 27 coincident with the dispensing point12 down into the recess 23 formed in the lower cartridge 40, 50,releasing a dose of medication 60 to the user by way of a dispensingoutlet 4 provided in the vertical flank of the shell portion 2 of thecover 1. Halfway through the dispensing period, the upper cartridge 20,30 has turned 360° and returned to its original position. From halfwaythrough to the end of a dispensing period, it is only the lowercartridge which rotates on the separate member 14 a rotating thecartridge 40, 50, the dose of medication 60 being released from thecartridge 40, 50 the same way as from the upper cartridge 20, 30.

[0043] Rotation of the cartridges 20, 30 and 40, 50 (separate shaftmembers 14 a, 14 b) is preferably controlled by means of a processor orlogic 19 provided with a programmable memory. The program memory ispre-loaded with a basic program, which is capable of performing allnecessary functions but which lacks information regarding desiredfunctions and schedules therefor. An individual dispensing program forthe doses 60 and/or parameters to be used by the basic program can beprogrammed into the program memory of the processor 19 from an externalprogramming device, such as a PC or a mobile telephone, which can bemanually fed with parameters regarding a dispensing schedule and desiredaudible signals, such as a number of reminders for medication, timestherefor, and a person's name, which can be mentioned in conjunctionwith an sound signal reminder 76 produced by a voice synthesizer.Instead of a voice synthesizer, it is possible to use a separate minicassette recorder, on whose magnetic tape the audible reminder signalscan be dictated and which is controlled by the program through theintermediary of the processor 19. Of course, the use of a CD disk isalso possible for outputting audible reminder signals. For example, theaudible reminder signal may sound like “Mr. So-and-So, please take yourdaytime medication”.

[0044] The signal light 75 blinks as long as the dose of medication 60has been removed from the dosage compartment 27, 47 outside the deviceand made accessible to a user by pressing the dispensing button 3. Ifthe dose 60 is not removed within a set period, after a few audiblereminders, the program transfers the dose 60 away from the dispensingpoint 12, the dose 60 being no longer available during a dispensingperiod, e.g. a week, programmed in the device. The medication status canbe checked by opening the cover 1. The cartridges 20, 40 are preferablymade of transparent plastics. In more sophisticated equipment versions,it is of course possible to use also electronic monitoring, whichrecords information about non-consumed medications and, if necessary,sets off an alarm.

[0045]FIGS. 5 and 6 depict a loading device 80 for filling the dosagecompartments 27, 47 of the cartridges 20, 30 and 40, 50 with selectedmedicines according to prescription.

[0046] The loading device 80 is programmed for loading or dosingselected medications prescribed by a physician in any of the cartridges.The cartridges are interchangeable and designated or re-designated for acertain user after each filling. The loading device 80 is made up by aplurality of tubular medication feeders 81 set in a plurality of rows.The loading device 80 according to the present embodiment has itsfeeders 81 arranged in six rows, each row comprising seven feeders 81,i.e. the loading device 80 consisting of 42 feeders 81. Each feeder 81is used for supplying a single type of pill- or capsule-form medication61. The operating principles of such feeders are prior known technologyfor a skilled person and, thus, not described in more detail in thiscontext.

[0047] The cartridge 20, 40 according to embodiment of FIGS. 1-4 is setfor a planar movement underneath the dosage feeder 81 in a positionupside down (relative to operating position in dispenser) and withoutthe base disc 30, 50. The cartridge 20 according to embodiment of FIGS.8 and 9 is set in a position which is also the operating position indispenser. The cartridge is preferably secured by the central hole 24,44 to a clamp 72 movable along guides 70, 71 or the like. Motors 74,driven according to a loading program, are used for shifting each dosagecompartment 27, 47 in turn and in compliance with a preset programunderneath a desired feeder 81, wherefrom a desired medication 60 can bedelivered into the appropriate dosage compartment 27, 47. The cartridge20, 40 may of course be also adapted to be rotated by the clamp 72 andthe feeders 81 may be arranged in a circle or successively in a singlerow or in some other preferred pattern.

[0048] To the top cartridge surface 21, 41, which functions as thebottom surface as a cartridge is filled, (or to the bottom surface ofcartridge in FIGS. 8 and 9) is attached an identification label ID by amechanism 73 associated with the loading device 80, on the basis ofwhich information the filled cartridge 20 can be certifiably returned toa proper dispensing device.

[0049] The following description deals with a system of the inventionwith reference to FIG. 7. A dispensing device 35 may be like the onedescribed above or to be described subsequently with reference to FIGS.8 and 9. The dispensing device 35 is fitted with a radio transmitter,such as a GSM module 62, which is adapted to automatically transmitinformation regarding dispensing events by way of a wirelesscommunication link 63 to a predetermined control file 64 a, which isincluded e.g. in a server 64 of a wireless communication or internetservice provider (operator). The control file thus includes a dispensingevent log which can be checked in real time with the progress ofdispensing via internet by any person having the necessary code key. Theoperator's server 64 can further include a program for automatic controlof the dispensing event log and for giving an alarm to one or morepredetermined caregiver, nurse or doctor if a predetermined number ofdispensing events have failed. The control file 64 a may also beincluded in the bulk storage of a facility computer 66 in a hospital oran agency responsible for home health care. Said computer 66 as well asthe server 64 are in mutual communication by way of an internet link 65.Thus, the control file 64 a can be monitored by way of the internet fromany computer, as long as a password linked with the control file 64 a isknown. This substantially reduces unnecessary visits for checking thedispersing events. Furthermore, this advantage is achieved withoutparticular intelligence in the dispenser.

[0050] The prescription controlling the loading device 80 in terms ofits filling action is adapted to be delivered, along with a patient'sidentification data, by way of a communication network, such as theinternet 65 or a chip card 68, to a computer 67 controlling operation ofthe loading device 80. Alternatively, the prescription can be deliveredconventionally on a paper printout, from which the necessary informationis transferred by typing to the computer 67 controlling the dosage.

[0051] The cartridges 20, 40 are adapted to be disengaged from thedispensing device 35 and to be transferred to the loading device 80 forfilling or loading the dosage compartments 27, 47 of a cartridge withdesired doses of medication. In addition, the mechanism 73 associatedwith the loading device 80 furnishes the loaded cartridge 20 withidentification data ID, on the basis of which the loaded or filledcartridge 20, 40 can be certifiably returned to the correct dispensingdevice 35.

[0052] The dispensing device 35 has its program electronics 19re-programmable with an external programming unit. In the depicted case,the external programming unit comprises a mobile telephone 36, whereby adispensing program or its updatings can be fed to the programelectronics 19 by way of an IR link 37, 38 shown in FIG. 8. The externalprogramming unit for a dispensing program may also comprise the facilitycomputer 66, which has a communication via the internet 65 with thecontrol file 64 a or which has the control file stored in its bulkmemory. In the latter case, the dispensing device 35 can be brought tothe IR link 138 (shown in FIG. 10) of the computer 66 for programming orthe program can be transferred from the computer 66 to the mobile phone36, whereby the program is delivered further to the program memory 19 ofthe dispensing device 62.

[0053] The cartridge 20, 40 can be furnished with identification data,e.g. by attaching to the cartridge an identification-data carrying labelID by means of the mechanism 73. Optionally or additionally, theidentification can be certified according to the embodiment shown inFIGS. 8 and 9 by providing the cartridge 20 with an electronicidentification tag 39, which the loading device 80 furnishes withidentification data and information of prescribed medicines and ofdispensing program for a given customer. Such data may include e.g. apatient, a hospital, medications, and a physician. The dispensing devicehas its housing 10 provided with elements 39 a for reading theinformation disclosed in the identification tag 39. Since readingelements are comparatively expensive, it is preferable that in hospitalenvironment be employed a separate reading device 102 (FIG. 10), whichis located e.g. in a nurses' station and which has an antenna 139 forreading the RF-tag 39 and an IR link 138 for delivering the read-outinformation to a dispensing device. Upon the arrival of dosagecartridges 20 filled with doses of medication, a nurse proceeds to pickup respective dispensing devices from patients' rooms and to transferthe tag-disclosed information by way of a reading device 102/139 and anIR link 138 to the memory 19 of a dispensing device 20. Before suchreading and transferring, a matching cartridge has been inserted in aproper dispensing device.

[0054] The following description deals in even more detail with thedispensing device shown in FIG. 8. The dispensing device is providedwith a cover or housing 1, comprising a shell portion 2 which includes adispensing outlet 4 and a flap 4 a fordclosing the same, if necessary.The components 2 and 4 a can be manufactured in moulded plastics and atleast the flap 4 a is transparent (shell portion 2 may benon-transparent). The flap 4 a may have its base hinged in such a waythat the flap 4 a can be removed as required, if a patient finds itdifficult to operate a locking mechanism attached to its outer end. Apush button 3 fits in a central hole in the shell portion 2 and ismanufactured from transparent stained plastics. The colour of the pushbutton 3 can also be used for encoding a loading device. The push button3 is provided with a transparent window (not shown) for monitoring atimer display (the window can be covered as required). In addition, thepush button 3 is provided with an opening 3 b for a led light indicator76.

[0055] The cartridge 20 comprises preferably a transparentmachine-washable plastic manufactured in food-grade plastics. Thecartridge is provided with 28 dosage compartments 27 for tablets. Thecartridges 20 are interchangeable between various dispensing devices.The cartridge has its central hole 24 provided with a gear rim 18 b,which supplies the cartridge with its rotary drive from a gearwheel 18 aof the motor 18 placed in the central hollow of the housing 10 (thenecessary gear between the motor 18 and the gearwheel 18 a has not beenshown).

[0056] The housing 10 is manufactured in transparent plastics e.g. as aplastic extrudate. Consequently, a prescription or an identification tagID, attached to the bottom of the cartridge 20, is visible as requiredthrough a transparent floor 21 of the housing 10. Through a rim collar13 of the housing it is possible to visually observe medicationsremaining in the dosage compartments 27 of a cartridge (even in the casethat the shell portion is non-transparent).

[0057] An electronics unit 55 is disposed inside a cylindrical centralhollow 11 within the housing 10. The electronics unit is provided with amemory-equipped, programmable processor 19, which can be programmed withfour daily times for medication by means of key buttons 56 or an IR link37, 38 included in the unit 55. In addition, the program takes care ofnecessary safety times and delay times, as well as a deadline for theingestion of a dose. The IR link 37, 38, included in the unit 55, alongwith the GSM module 62, serving as an accessory, enables a telecontrolover medication and eventual alarms regarding malfunctions, as describedin conjunction with FIG. 7. Hence, the program takes care of thespecification-compliant function of a dispensing device and, merely bymodifying the program, it is possible to develop various versions of adispensing device. Naturally, the IR link can be replaced with an RFlink or other links operating in compliance with standards.

[0058] A floor panel 29, having a hole 29 a for the operation of an IRlink, encloses the housing hollow 11 which has space also for a soundsignal device 75 and a battery.

[0059] The motor 18 comprises e.g. a stepped motor, which activates itsoperation upon pressing down the push button 3 as pins 3 a depress theprogramming keys 56 of the electronics unit 55. However, this activationonly occurs after the signaling device 75, 76 has been activated underthe control of program electronics 19, 55. Every time the elements 18,18 a operating the cartridge 20 are activated, the information about adispensing occurrence is transmitted to the control file 64 a mentionedin connection with FIG. 7, which comprises e.g. a www-page in theinternet and which constitutes a monitoring log for taking themedication. Optionally, a memory associated with the program electronics19, 55 is used to collect information about dispensing occurrences andto transmit the same at prescribed times to said control file 64 a.

[0060] Thus, the electronics unit 55 included in the dispensing deviceis programmable either by a patient him- or herself or by medicalpersonnel (keys 56) or by means of the computer 66 or utilizing an IRlink 138 in the programming device 101 or 102, or in the GSM telephone36. According to its programming, the dosage dispenser electronics 19,55, 75, 76 outputs a signal to the user whenever it is time formedication and prevents the ingestion of any dose of medication otherthan the one to be taken at that precise time.

[0061] As the dosage cartridges 20 containing doses of medication arecarried independently of a dispensing device from the loading device 80to the dispensing device 35, the dosage cartridge 20 must be providedwith a cover 28. This cover 20 may be a rotatable cover of thintransparent plastics, which is provided by a loading opening 28 a (FIG.9) for manual loading. The cover 28 is removed as the cartridge 20 isinserted in the housing 10. The cover 28 may also remain attached to thecartridge 20 included in a dispensing device, in which case the cover 28must be provided with a respective central hole 24 and the cover 28 mustbe rotatable relative to the cartridge 20, such that the hole 28 apresent in the cover 28 always remains in line with the outlet 4 of theshell portion 2 while the cartridge 20 is rotating. The cartridge turnsan angular distance equal to the dosage compartment 27 every time thepush button 3 is depressed at the accepted medication time. The steppedmotor 18 can be used for the precise determination of an angle ofrotation in such a way that, even after quite a long-term use, thedosage compartments 27 always coincide with the dispensing outlet 4.

[0062] As shown in FIG. 9, mechanical detents 92 a around the peripheryof the cartridge 20 can be used to fit with a complementary detent 92 bin the cover 28 to slightly hold the rotation of the cover 28 each timethe opening 28 a coincides with the dosage compartment 27.

[0063]FIG. 9 illustrates a section from the rim of a cartridge (the restof the rim being also provided by compartments 27 though not shown). Thedosage compartments 27 are narrow and high so as to accommodate 28 ofthose along a relatively small circular arc. This configuration isbeneficial in terms of both elongated capsules and circular pills.Between the dosage compartments 27 is a vacant recess or space 23 and inline therewith the dispenser bottom 10/21 is provided with a protrusion(not shown), which is insertable in the space 23 (from the bottom sidethereof) as an indication for inserting the cartridge 20 in the housing10 of the dispensing device 35 (and similarly in the loading device 80)in a preset initial position. The cartridge 20 rests upon setbacks 11 band 11 a included in the cylindrical housing hollow 11. Space 23 can beutilized also for receiving the RF-tag 39.

[0064] The jacket or shell portion 2 has a bottom edge which can belocked with an appropriate forming to the top edge of an outer housingrim 13. In view of switching the cartridges 20, there must be anengagement between the jacket 2 and the housing 10 which is readilydisconnectable and reconnectable (if necessary, also lockable). This canbe implemented e.g. by forming the opposing edges with a combination ofshort threading and bayonet coupling. A lock cylinder may be placedinside the protrusion 69.

[0065] As shown in FIG. 9, there is a schedule ring 90, 91 close to theinner rim of the openings of the dosage compartments 27. This schedulering is a replaceable paper or plastic ring having a first ring dividedinto sections 90, each section 90 corresponding to a certain day of aweek typed in the corresponding section 90. Such a “week day section”covers 1-4 compartments 27. A second ring is divided into subsections 91of the “week day sections” 90, indicating first, second etc. medicine ofa day. With this kind of scheduling ring and the rotatable cover 28 withopening 28 a, the cartridge can also be used as a manually operateddispensing cartridge also without the actual dispensing device. This isa clear benefit of the cartridge construction, which facilitates themanual loading in one hand, but enables automated loading on the otherhand, and is furthermore applicable to be used with or without theintelligent dispensing device.

[0066]FIG. 11 shows a semi-automatic loading device 80′ having feeders81′ arranged in a semi circle from medicine receptacles to the peripheryof cartridge 20 which is rotated automatically under control of thecomputer 67 and the prescription fed in the computer 67. The cartridges20 are manually changed and the medicine receptacles are manuallyfilled. Also in this case it is important to provide each and everycartridge 20 with the identification label ID and/or with the RF-tagbearing the identification information. Preferably, at least anoptically readable ID label is attached to the cartridge by means of theloading device 80, 80′.

[0067] As can be learned from the above description the invention servesan advanced logistics for delivering medicines from dispensary to theusers (patients) and for efficient monitoring of appropriate use ordisposition of the medicines.

1. A system for dispensing pill- or capsule-form medications (61) indesired doses (60), said system comprising a dispensing device (35)which includes a housing or frame (10), a cartridge (20, 40) rotatablysupported on the housing or frame (10) and provided with individualdosage compartments (27, 47) for desired doses of medication, thecartridge (20, 40) being adapted to be disengageable and removable fromthe dispensing device (35) for filling the dosage compartments (27, 47)of the cartridge with desired doses of medication, the cartridge beingfurnished with identification data (ID), on the basis of which thefilled cartridge (20, 40) can be certifiably returned to the properdispensing device (35), a signaling device (75, 76) giving a soundand/or light signal, which activates at pre-programmed points of time,and an electronics unit (19, 55) containing a dispensing program, theprogram electronics (19) being re-programmable with a programming device(55, 56; 36, 66, 101, 102) and that the dispensing is arranged to beeffected by means of the users own action which is exerted onto thedispensing device (35), characterized in that the users own action fordispensing rotates or controls, rotation of the cartridge (20, 40) tobring an individual dosage compartment (27, 47) into a dispensingposition, and that the said users own action for dispensing, or lack ofsuch action within a prescribed time, is adapted to automaticallytransmit information regarding the dispensing event by way of acommunication link (62, 63) to a distant control file (64 a), which canbe accessed and monitored by persons having a correct key code orpassword.
 2. A system as set forth in claim 1, characterized in that thecartridge (20) is furnished with a rotatable and removable cover (28)having an opening (28 a) which can be rotated to coincide with any ofthe dosage compartments (27) for loading and/or dispensing of dosesthrough the opening (28 a), and that the cartridge is further providedby means (90, 91) for visual indication of dispensing schedule.
 3. Asystem as set forth in claim 1, characterized in that the systemincludes a separate dosing or loading device (80, 80′) for filling thedosage compartments (27, 47) of the cartridge with desired doses ofmedication and for furnishing the filled cartridge (20, 40) withidentification data (ID).
 4. A system as set forth in claim 1,characterized in that the programming device (36, 66, 101, 102) is anexternal portable device, which has a wireless communication link (37,138) with the electronics unit (19, 55) of the dispensing device (35).5. A system as set forth in claim 3, characterized in that theprescription controlling the loading device (80) in terms of its fillingaction is adapted to be delivered, along with a patient's identificationdata, by way of a communication network, such as the internet or a chipcard (68), to a computer (67) controlling operation of the loadingdevice (80).
 6. A system as set forth in claim 1, characterized in thatthe dispensing device (35) is provided with a transmitter, such as a GSMmodule (62), which is adapted to transmit automatically informationregarding dispensing occurrences by way of a communication link (63) toa predetermined control file (64 a) at a distant control terminal (64,66), which is provided by a program for monitoring the dispensing eventssaved in the control file (64 a).
 7. A system as set forth in claim 1,characterized in that the control file (64 a) is linked to the internet(65) in such a way that the control file (64 a) can be monitored via theinternet, as long as a password associated with the control file (64 a)is known.
 8. A system as set forth in claim 4, characterized in that theexternal programming device (36, 66, 101, 102) for a dispensing programcomprises either a mobile telephone (36) or a programming device (101,102) equipped with an IR link (37, 38, 138) for feeding the dispensingprogram, or modifications thereto to the electronics unit (19, 55).
 9. Asystem as set forth in claim 4, characterized in that the externalprogramming device (36, 66, 101, 102) for a dispensing program comprisesa computer (66), which has a link via the internet (65) to the controlfile (64 a) or which has the control file stored in its bulk memory. 10.A system as set forth in claim 3, characterized in that the loadingdevice (80, 80′) is adapted to provide the cartridge (20, 40) with anoptically readable label (ID) disclosing the identification data.
 11. Asystem as set forth in claim 3, characterized in that the cartridge (20)carries an electronic identification tag (39), which the loading device(80, 80′) furnishes with identification data for a customer, and thatthe dispensing device (35) or a hospital dispensary is provided withelements (39 a; 102/139) for reading the data disclosed in theidentification tag (39).
 12. A system as set forth in claim 1,characterized in that the means (18, 18 a) for manipulating thecartridge (20) are activated to function upon pressing a push button(3), but only after the signalling device (75, 76) has activated undercontrol of the program of the electronics unit (19, 55).
 13. A system asset forth in claim 1, characterized in that, upon every activation ofthe means (18, 18 a) manipulating the cartridge (20), the informationabout a dispensing occurrence is transmitted to said control file (64a), which compiles a monitoring log of taking a medication.
 14. A systemas set forth in claim 1, characterized in that the electronics unit (19,55) involves a memory which collects information regarding dispensingoccurrences and transmits the same at prescribed times to said controlfile (64 a), which compiles a monitoring log of taking a medication, theprescribed times being short enough for practically real time monitoringof taking a medication.
 15. A system as set forth in claim 1,characterized in that the electronics unit (19, 55) containing adispensing program is programmable by means of push buttons (56)included therein.
 16. A system as set forth in claim 1, characterized inthat between the dosage compartments (27) of the cartridge (20) is avacant recess or space (23) and the housing or frame (10) of thedispensing device is provided with a protrusion, which functions as aresponse and/or an indication for inserting the cartridge (20) in thehousing or frame (10) of a dispensing device in a preset initialposition.
 17. A system as set forth in claim 1, characterized in thatthe cartridge (20, 30 and 40, 50) includes a substantially circular basedisc (30, 50), having radially inbound elongated cuts or slits (34, 54)provide its outer periphery with sector-shaped flexible flaps (31, 51)which constitute a floor for the dosage compartment (27, 47), and thatin the vicinity of the dispensing point (12) are provided manuallyoperated bending means (3, 7, 8 a, 9 a) for deflecting the flap (31, 51)to extend obliquely downwards from the plane of the base disc (30, 50)and for releasing the dose of medication (60) from the dosagecompartment (27, 47).
 18. A system as set forth in claim 1,characterized in that at least one cartridge (20, 40) is encloseablewithin a space (5) defined by a cover (2) mountable around the frame(10) and the cartridge (20, 30 and 40, 50).
 19. A system as set forth inclaim 18, characterized in that the cover (2) is lockable securely tothe frame (10) by means of a common locking mechanism (16, 17; 69)between the cover (2) and the rim portion (13) of the frame (10).
 20. Asystem as set forth in claim 1, characterized in that a stepping motor(18) rotates the cartridge (20, 30 and 40, 50) in compliance with aprogram programmed in a programmable memory of the electronics unit (19,55).
 21. A system as set forth in claim 1, characterized in that, withthe base disc (30, 50) or the removable cover (28) set in its position,the dosage compartments (27, 47) are closed on all sides thereof.
 22. Asystem as set forth in claim 1, characterized in that, the cartridges(20, 40) are made of transparent plastics and also the dispensing deviceis partially made of transparent plastics to allow visual inspection ofthe doses in the dosage compartments.
 23. A system as set forth in claim12, characterized in that a stepping motor (18) rotates the cartridge(20) through an angular distance equal to the dosage compartment (27) asthe dispensing button (20) is pressed at the accepted medication time,which is programmed in the program of the electronics unit (19, 55).